Numerical and experimental insights into short circuit induction and thermal hazards in overloaded cables: A comprehensive study

Electrical fires, often caused by short circuits in overloaded cables, pose significant safety risks. Understanding the heat transfer processes and breakdown mechanisms that lead to these short circuits is crucial for predicting and mitigating fire hazards. This study presents a comprehensive numerical model of heat transfer breakdown in overloaded cables, validated through experimental methods. The model, based on the finite element method, accurately predicts short-circuit outcomes and reveals the temperature distribution and breakdown points within the overloaded cable. Key findings include the identification of the threshold current required to trigger a short circuit (3.9 I e within 30 min) and the observation that the maximum temperature occurs at the midpoint along the central axis between the two conductors. The model also captures fluctuations in electric field strength during short-circuit events, providing a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms. The integration of experimental and modeling approaches offers valuable insights for developing strategies to mitigate the risk of fires caused by overloaded cables.